New Crocodile warning sign appears at Bristol Harbour.

The "Bristol croc" is a local urban legend and joke stemming from reported sightings of a crocodile in the city's harbour and River Avon in 2014. While the sightings were never confirmed, the story captured the public's imagination and has since inspired works of art, films, and merchandise.
Origins of the myth
The initial report: The story began in February 2014, when a bus driver reported seeing a 6-foot-long crocodile in the River Avon near Bedminster Bridge.
Police involvement: An Avon and Somerset police officer tweeted about the sighting, but a subsequent search of the river found no sign of the reptile.
Further sightings: Despite the lack of evidence, other people came forward claiming to have seen the creature. Some even provided video and photographic evidence, though experts determined these were likely remote-controlled fakes or floating logs.
The Bristol community's reaction
The tale of the Bristol croc has become a popular and enduring urban legend in the city.
The mystery inspired a number of creative tributes, including a life-size crocheted crocodile commissioned by the city council.
In September 2024, an anonymous artist known as "Getting Up To Stuff" placed a crocodile sculpture in an alcove overlooking the Floating Harbour as a tribute.
For years, a popular parody Twitter account (@TheBristolCroc) entertained followers by posting humorous messages from the perspective of the elusive beast.
A student even created a short film based on the story, calling it a "love letter to my home town".